Bible Survey: 2 Timothy

Second Timothy is the last letter Paul ever wrote. He wrote it from a Roman prison knowing he would soon be put to death, and its theme is loyalty to Christ. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:7–8), and that crown is for all them also that love his appearing (2 Timothy 4:8).

Paul was in chains, but the word of God is not bound (2 Timothy 2:9). Many had deserted him: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world (2 Timothy 4:10). Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me (2 Timothy 4:17). And Mark, who had once walked away from Paul, was now profitable to me for the ministry (2 Timothy 4:11). A Christian who has failed can be useful to God again.

The letter is full of warnings about the last days, when men shall be lovers of their own selves (2 Timothy 3:2), lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof (2 Timothy 3:4–5). That describes a great many people who call themselves Christians and spend the Lord's day on the golf course. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears (2 Timothy 4:3). Plenty of popular preachers today will not preach against sin for fear of losing the crowd.

The answer is the Word of God. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Too many church people hardly know their Bibles.

And the Christian should expect opposition: Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).

Next in the series: Titus.

Taught by Brother James Barker in Sunday School at Naples Independent Baptist Church, May 9, 2021. Watch the lesson.